Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake

Name: Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup cocoa powder; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich and moist flavors of this delightful Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-03T14:46:30.866Z

This Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with rich chocolate frosting, creating a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh banana sweetness
Moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or as a sweet treat

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy to any gathering. Whether it's a birthday celebration, a family reunion, or simply a cozy evening at home, this cake is the ideal choice. The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and sweet banana creates a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Its moist texture ensures that every bite is satisfying, making it a dessert that will be remembered long after the last slice is gone.

This cake is versatile enough to be served at various events, from casual get-togethers to formal parties. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a universal favorite, ensuring that it will be a hit wherever you take it.

Simple Ingredients, Exquisite Results

One of the best aspects of the Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while cocoa powder offers a rich chocolate flavor without the need for complicated ingredients. This means you can whip up this delightful cake without any hassle, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

Additionally, the frosting is straightforward to prepare, allowing you to create a stunning dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of butter, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar results in a luscious frosting that perfectly complements the cake. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To ensure your Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider a few helpful tips. First, make sure your bananas are ripe; the darker the skin, the sweeter they will be. This natural sweetness is essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the cake. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter. Mixing just until the ingredients are combined will yield a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Another tip is to let your cake cool completely before frosting it. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, resulting in a beautifully decorated cake. If you want to make it ahead of time, the cake can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Just add the frosting closer to serving time to keep it fresh and delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious cake:

For the Cake

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, prepare the frosting and spread it evenly on top of the cake.

Slice and serve your delicious Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

After baking your Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake, it can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The cake also freezes beautifully, so if you have leftovers or want to make it in advance, wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months.

When it comes to serving, you can enjoy this cake on its own, or elevate it with accompaniments like fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For more indulgence, serve it with whipped cream or ice cream, creating a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate and banana flavors.

Variations to Try

While the classic Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste. For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and flavor. You can also substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier option without compromising taste.

If you're a fan of peanut butter, consider layering some creamy peanut butter between the cake and frosting for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, try adding chocolate chips or chunks to the batter for an extra chocolatey delight. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize your cake to your liking.

Why Baking is Therapeutic

Baking can be a wonderful way to unwind and express creativity. The process of measuring ingredients, mixing, and watching your creation rise in the oven can be incredibly satisfying. Not only does it engage your senses, but it also provides a sense of accomplishment when you see the finished product. Plus, sharing your baked goods with family and friends brings joy to both the baker and the recipients.

Chocolate Frosted Banana Cake, in particular, is perfect for this therapeutic activity. The comforting aromas of chocolate and banana wafting through your kitchen as the cake bakes can uplift your spirits. So, whether you're baking for a special occasion or just for yourself, take the time to enjoy the process and savor the delicious results of your hard work.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.